Welcome, President Hauser!

CMC’s ninth president begins her term today

Following a presidential search that began last spring, Colorado Mountain College welcomes a new chief executive. Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser takes office today with what she describes as a “packed schedule,” with plans for a tour of the CMC District to meet college employees and community members. Her first day includes meeting with groups of students over lunch at Spring Valley and with faculty and staff.

Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser talks with a student during a welcome reception at Colorado Mountain College in Edwards, Nov. 19. In her first few weeks she will be touring the CMC District to meet employees, students and stakeholders. Photo: David Clifford

Before taking office she has been meeting with CMC employees and supporters, including a November 19 reception at Edwards. She also met in Denver with CMC founding father David Delaplane to learn about the history of the college district and its establishment in the early 1960s.

“It is such a privilege to officially join the Colorado Mountain College team,” she said. “I look forward to a very busy December visiting every campus and learning location, meeting with each trustee in his/her region, representing CMC at the state legislature, and listening to students, staff, and faculty about the challenges, opportunities, and dreams that lie ahead for the College. ”

Hauser’s appointment drew praise from several leaders in higher education and government. In addition to a breadth of skills and experience, she brings statewide connections to the college.

Dr. Hauser met recently with CMC founding father David Delaplane.

In offering Hauser the position, CMC trustees cited overwhelmingly positive feedback about her from college employees and local communities.

“With Dr. Hauser’s proven success in fundraising and garnering the support of students and faculty, CMC will now go forward in being a great community college,” said Kathy Goudy, the college’s trustee from eastern Garfield County.

Get to know Dr. Hauser when she visits your location and on the President’s Page of the Colorado Mountain College website.